Question
What does the following term mean, while describing narrators:
قفز القنطرة، أو جاز القنطرة، أو جاوز القنطرة
Answer
This phrase literally means ‘He has crossed the bridge.’
This phrase is generally used when there is some [unjustified] criticism levelled against a particular narrator (جرح). However due to the number of Muhaddithun/caliber of Muhaddithun that have accepted him to be reliable, this criticism is not given any regard nor any consideration.
(Refer: Tadhkiratul Huffaz, vol. 3 pg. 797, Mizanul I’tidal, vol. 2 pg. 437, number: 4322 and vol. 2 pg. 563, number: 4914 and vol. 4 pg. 25, number: 6710 and vol. 5 pg. 144, number: 9100, Hudas Sari, Hafiz Ibn Hajar’s foreword of Fathul Bari; vol. 2 pg. 343, beginning of الفصل التاسع)
This word has also been used to describe a narrator who has not reached a high level of accreditation, however, he has been deemed adequate.
(Refer: Mizanul I’tidal, vol. 2 pg. 538, number: 4795)
When inspecting the context the Muhaddithun have used this word, one will be able to ascertain the correct meaning.
Note: The above is merely an answer to the question provided. One who is unqualified, should not seek to apply this and/or draw conclusions on related issues independently.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar